The deep-sea floor has been considered as a potential site for the disposal of toxic and radioactive wastes. What questions about the biology, geology, and chemistry of the deep-sea environment do you think should be answered before such plans are approved?

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We should find out more about circulation of water masses on the
deep-sea floor, the relative stability of the bottom, possible
binding or incorporation of these wastes to organic matter, or even
their direct utilization by marine bacteria or larger animals.
Migrating animals on those feeding in deep water may transfer these
radioactive materials into the food chain and eventually into our
food. The danger of radioactive pollution to the marine environment
is briefly discussed in the section "Radioactive Wastes" in chapter
18.